Leveson down under

Your editorial “Regulator a bad idea" (AFR, December 4) not surprisingly argues the case for the Australian government to follow the Cameron government’s initial response to Justice Lord Leveson's report.

The Press Council in Australia is probably well overdue for reform, yet that reform should not be at the expense of maintaining a free press.

The need for continued industry representation on the council is acknowledged, yet like many professional-body conduct committees, lay or community representation is essential to ensure balance.

Over-regulation of the press, especially by governments unhappy with the coverage they may receive, should not be used to stifle the right of free speech without fear of litigation.

It is interesting that the Lord Justice is about to arrive in Australia shortly for a round of speaking engagements.

What he has to say in an Australian context, especially in the wake of the Finkelstein inquiry, should make for some lively coverage and comment from all the interested parties.